One Book One Region

One Book One Region, or OBOR, has been around for several years in Southeastern Connecticut,
It is a collective effort of area libraries to select one book annually for everyone in the region to read and discuss. Over the years, we have read classics, like Fahrenheit 451 or newcomers, such as, The Kite Runner. All of the chosen titles have touched on current topics of discussion including prejudice, censorship, illegal immigration and poverty.

The OBOR group meets during the winter to chose a title. Many books are reviewed before the final selection. An attempt is made to find a book with a living author willing to visit the area and also available in different reading and listening formats. The author visits the area in the spring for the kick off and returns in September for several appearances. During the summer, area libraries hold book discussions and programming involving the chosen topic.

The book selected this year is Life Is So Good by George Dawson and Richard Glaubman. The book follows the life of Mr. Dawson through his 100 + years, with the theme of overcoming adversity and life getting better. Since George Dawson did not learn to read until he was 98, it also explores the benefits of literacy.

Using these themes, Marty Hubbard, Senior Assistant Librarian, has organized a wonderful selection of activities for adults this summer. I am a bit late in writing, to invite you to the first two excellent movies, "Nightjohn" and "There Was Always Sun Shining Someplace", but both are available to borrow from the library. Don't miss the next two movies "Resting Place" on Wednesday, July 30 and "Pride of Jesse Hallam" on August 5. Both will be shown at Bill Library at 7:00 p.m.

Two more programs will also be held at Bill Library this summer. Wednesday, August 6, representatives from Elderhostel and Adventures in Lifelong Learning will speak at 7:00 p.m. The following week, August 13, at the same time, Susan Townsley, executive director of Literacy Volunteers of Southeastern Connecticut, will speak on literacy and their programs.

The Ledyard Libraries will hold their discussion of Life is So Good, on Wednesday, August 20 at 7:00 p.m at Bill Library. Susan Topping from Three Rivers will lead the discussion. If you haven't read the book yet, call either of the libraries or go online to reserve your copy.

One Book One Region. What a great idea! Join in.